Either way, you clicked this article because you need a solution to the common side effects of aging as a male —erectile dysfunction, low libido, and low energy.

Herbal health products often called “botanicals,” have been used to prevent and manage diseases and ailments for centuries. Currently, an estimated 80 percent of the world’s population have used or are using a type of herbal supplement.

Check out this article by Mayo Clinic. It covers the basics of what you need to know before buying herbal supplements.

And then in this article, you’ll read about three herbs that help men boost their libido and vitality. But what works for one person may not work for you so give us a call to discuss your health history before buying.

Maca

In fact, it’s believed that about 2000 years ago, people indigenous to the Andes Mountains in Peru began consuming a plant, called Maca, after seeing how it increased the energy and fertility of their livestock.

Since the 1990s, the use of Maca has grown in popularity in the states and is now one of Peru’s top exports.

Maca is a cruciferous vegetable, like cauliflower and kale. It’s a tough plant and grows in inhospitable plateaus.

While research on the Maca plant is still in the beginning stages, one review in 2010 found evidence to support that the plant improves sexual desire after six weeks of consumption.

Plus, it has healthful fiber, complex carbohydrates, protein, and minerals, like calcium and magnesium.

The root, which grows underground, is the main edible part. You can consume it in powder form, capsules, or liquid extract. Many people describe the taste as earthy or nutty.

The dosage you take depends on why you’re taking Maca and in what form. Your doctor can help you decide what’s right for you.

Korean Red Ginseng

Ginseng, nicknamed the “king of herbs” is one of the most popular herbal remedies in the world today.

Like Maca, people have used the herb for many years, with the earliest record of its medicinal use dating back to around 500 A.D.

There are different varieties of ginseng, but we’ll focus on the Korean red ginseng, which grows in Asia. It’s a high-quality variety that is steamed and dried.

In addition to cancer prevention and anti-inflammatory effects, studies show that the herb can be an effective alternative for treating male erectile dysfunction.

You can take it by mouth (capsule form) but don’t use it for an extended period. Your doctor can help you decide on the correct dosage and length of use.

As with most herbal remedies, ginseng may not be right for you. Currently, it’s not FDA-approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. And it can interfere with some medications (such as insulin) and increase the effects of caffeine.

Zinc

While zinc isn’t an herbal remedy, it’s made this list because it’s a natural mineral that impacts your testosterone levels and prostrates.

In 1996, a study showed that there was a correlation between zinc deficiency and low levels of testosterone. Researchers placed young men on a low-zinc diet, and after 20 weeks, their testosterone levels dropped almost 75 percent.

Today, many men use this supplement to replace or enhance medications like Viagra.

You can find it in oysters, crab, fortified cereals, kidney beans, chicken, beef, or pork. But you can also take zinc as a supplement. This article goes into more detail about the benefits and recommendations for zinc supplements.

Taking Action

As always, we highlight a few options (along with bite-sized information) on our blog so you can make easy decisions when it comes to your sexual health and overall well-being.

Are there more supplements out there? Of course! Are there are more quick tips for boosting testosterone? Yes! For example, avoiding soy.

But, the most important advice you can glean from the plethora of information out there is to take action. If you want to increase your testosterone levels naturally, give us a call.